Tony Gaffan

I would LOVE to see a marina there, but the cost would be in the tens of millions. Without grants, the strain to our taxpayers would simply be too costly. The Mettawas Park has been a passion of mine for much of my term on Council. I had the honour of sitting and co-chairing on the Mettawas fundraising Committee for 7 years . Aside from the upkeep, the majority of money for the incredible improvements that exist so far, have come from fundraising projects and generous sponsorships. Accessing the water for swimming in this area due to the shallow water, drainage, goose and duck population and problematic shape of the bay that doesn’t flow creates a stagnant area prone to high ecoli counts rendering it unsafe. Correcting all of this would amount to totals in the millions. What is often forgotten is the Cedar beach and Cedar Island beach area. Both are beautiful swimming locations well groomed and cared for in Kingsville along with our marina which needs additional money in their budget line for much-needed, and major improvements. The plan for the Mettawas continues to be something I want to see evolve into a passive reflective park, an idea which came from an open house to invite input from the constituents. With winding pathways, reflection pools and more of our beautiful gardens that Kingsville is known for, this would be another treasure to be discovered and enjoyed by everyone. Perhaps a partnership with our art society to add their flair, would result in something truly unique.